Few cars are as iconic as a Porsche 911 - opens in new window or tab.. Generations of collectors have appreciated its distinctive and timeless design thanks to decades of continuous production. The current popularity of off-roading and rallying has only broadened that appeal, leading to high-end restorations like the Porsche 911 RSR Safari recently offered on eBay.
This 1973 Porsche pays homage to the 911’s prolonged success in rally racing. The model won races in Monaco in the late 1960s and early 1970s and competed admirably in the Paris-Dakar rally into the 1980s.
After starting life as a 1973 911 E, this particular sports car went through a complete nuts-and-bolts transformation to give it the look and performance of a factory rally car.
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Rally Racer Resto
The 911 for sale on eBay is the result of a four-year, no-expense-spared build for a well-heeled enthusiast. The work was performed by California-based GD Racing - opens in new window or tab., a specialty shop with 30 years of experience maintaining, restoring, and fabricating collectible and racing Porsches. The goal was to create a Porsche with the look and feel of a Paris-Dakar factory rally car while remaining street-legal, with modern performance and reliability.
The result is a remarkable and uncompromising performance car that can be driven daily. Checking in at just 1,950 pounds, this 911 saw extensive weight-saving measures, including a carbon fiber roof, fiberglass fenders, doors, hood, and trunk. Even the sun visors - opens in new window or tab. and glovebox were removed to save weight.
Interior modifications include:
- A full color-matched roll cage - opens in new window or tab.
- An RS-style steering wheel
- ST reproduction seats
The modifications create a business-like look while still providing a comfortable driving position, whether racing or driving to the grocery store. All factory instruments and controls—along with creature comforts like carpeting and upholstered door panels—remain.
In-Period Power
A 310-horsepower, 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine sourced from a 1990s-era Porsche 993 - opens in new window or tab. provides the power. It’s matched with a five-speed manual transmission.
Engines from this period are regarded as the pinnacle of development by many brand devotees. They are the last of the legendary Porsche air-cooled engines - opens in new window or tab. before the factory switched to a liquid-cooled design. Air-cooled models are some of the most prized Porsches among collectors and often command higher prices than newer ones.
A hand-built custom suspension using components from Elephant Racing—Porsche suspension wizards—provides additional ground clearance and greater suspension travel for traversing rugged trails at speed. The original wheels and tires were replaced with oversized Braid Winrace wheels and BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires - opens in new window or tab. for a rugged and classic look and the aggressive tread pattern needed for traction off-road.
Off-Road Style, On-Road Manners
Now showing just 5,950 miles, this hand-built Porsche presents a unique opportunity to own a historically accurate car that combines daily drivability with classic looks and a unique rough-and-ready style.
While not cheap at $215,000, this lofty price is commensurate with recent sale prices of original factory RSR cars, which, in some cases, can trade much higher. Given current market trends, this is one Porsche that’s only likely to appreciate.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.